Mozambique News

Employing and Empowering African Women

Over the past two years, you’ve probably noticed many women and young girls in our church community sporting vibrant African Capulana bags.

But do you know the story behind how these bags were created with love by the village women of Mucatine, Mozambique and then sold for a missional purpose by a faithful team of CSPC volunteers?

"As part of Cedar Springs partnership with World Relief and our love for the Mucatine women, dozens of volunteers labored, marketed and sold the bags via direct and online sales beginning in July 2009," explains Linda Lind, project manager.

Since that time, nearly 3,000 bags were sewn and ironed in Mucatine using local fabrics and resources (and without the help of electricity)! The precious goods were then shipped to Knoxville where final touches were made to the bags by Lind and a team of volunteers, and then sold.

With great thanksgiving, there are only approximately 100 bags left to sell and the primary project goal was achieved and celebrated.

“With money raised, our friends in Mucatine were able to purchase a vegetable truck so they can take their local produce to market and earn a better living,” explained Lind.

Although there’s a limited supply of bags left, the Lord is opening a new door for the women of CSPC to continue to partner with Mucatine and work across global soil. Up next? Handmade dresses for girls made from the same colorful Capulana fabrics. The first shipment of dresses, priced at $14 each, is now available.

“Our hope is to continue to creatively partner with these women and use their God-given skills while spreading a missional message here at home,” said Lind. “New project goals are set, including purchasing another vehicle for transporting goods.”